New Douglas captain drives in twice, once for his late father

Men's captain Shane Scanlan driving in at Douglas Golf Club on January 4, 2025.

Tradition demands this is the time of year when golf clubs hold their captain's drive-in, with new club captains ceremonially teeing up their spells in office.

There was an emotional and unique example of the practice in Douglas Golf Club last weekend, with new captain Shane Scanlan driving in twice, once for his late father John, a former captain of the club who died as a result of illness in 1991 before he could drive in himself.

On Saturday, Shane took that drive for his father, using John's old MacGregor driver and a vintage Maxfli Balata ball, before then conducting his own duties too. 

"This is for the 1991 captain. He never got to drive in," Shane said. "I was down to his grave this morning and I hope he is watching now."

Irish Examiner story from April 20, 1991 on the death of John Scanlan.

John Scanlan also served as an official on the Munster branch and was Munster junior captain. He was well known for his tireless work developing underage golf.